Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
Key government and private sector organisations are calling for stronger action to reduce risk before disaster strikes.
Marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake (NHC), and the Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihua o Aotearoa (ICNZ) are urging more coordinated resilience-building to help protect people, property and communities across Aotearoa.
“On a personal level, it’s crucial to build your own resilience first, and that of your whānau and community,” John Price, NEMA’s Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management says.
“If we invest in our resilience now, we’ll be more prepared when we’re tested later.”
NHC invests in resilience projects that reduce natural hazard impacts through research, education, and information and advice on risk reduction.
“In a country at high risk of natural hazards, it is important that we all make evidence-based decisions for safer buildings and land use planning,” says Tina Mitchell, Chief Executive of NHC.
NHC also works to ensure high-quality data on natural hazards is available to decision-makers.
“A key priority for NHC is establishing a national view of risk so it guides resilience efforts in all its forms,” Tina Mitchell says.
ICNZ Chief Executive Kris Faafoi says the best time to act is before disaster strikes.
“The likelihood of more intense and severe weather events is rising, and New Zealand must prioritise risk reduction to protect communities and maintain insurance accessibility for all Kiwis,” he says.
Kris Faafoi is also calling for accelerated progress on New Zealand’s Climate Adaptation Framework and continued cooperation across all sectors to ensure the nation is better prepared for future challenges.
“Avoiding high-risk areas and investing in resilient infrastructure isn’t just the right thing to do, it makes economic sense. Research shows every $1 invested in flood risk reduction can save up to $4 in future response and recovery costs.”
NEMA, NHC and ICNZ recently signed a partnership to strengthen New Zealand’s disaster resilience through closer collaboration and knowledge sharing.
“We have significant expertise available in New Zealand – if we build on existing partnerships and co-ordinate effort, it will take us a long way,” says Tina Mitchell.
Mr Price says everyone can play a part.
“Get to know your neighbours and people in your community now, so that when an emergency happens, first responders can focus on those who need it most.
“Closely knit communities are more resilient because they’re more likely to look out for each other and help rebuild afterwards.”
New Zealanders can also take part in ShakeOut, the national earthquake drill, on 16 October. Visit shakeout.govt.nzto sign up and learn how to be better prepared.
